Posts tagged "beauty"

Dripping in chic, wrapped in bohemian flare + topped with powerful statements, are all the ingredients poured into each piece created by Brooklyn-based celebrity designer, Ashaka Givens!

From dressing the most influential creatives in the culture to fashion mavens, she has married style + detail into her passion of design! Givens’ love affair with fashion began in high school where she intuitively taught herself how to design women’s clothing and produced her own runway shows! She went on to study fashion design at Buffalo State College and spent a leg of her time there as a student at the Manchester Metropolitan University in England. It was abroad where she honed her tailoring techniques and studied couture design. She further developed her signature style think “funk-meets-sophistication” at the Fashion Institute of Technology, graduating with the class of 1996.

The New York native designs have not only been featured on the runways of Mercedez Benz Fashion Week but have also dressed + created custom pieces for tastemakers such as singer Erykah Badu, rapper/actor Common, rapper Missy Elliot, singer Raphael Saadiq, The Roots’ funky drummer, ?uestlove, and Kenyan artist Wangechi Mutu! Givens continues to showcase her authentic artistry while giving women the gift of beauty and confidence each and every day!

Our C.O.R.E interns had a chance to chat with designer, Ashaka Givens! Let’s get to know her a little better…

What do you hope to achieve by creating your clothing line?

I hope to make women feel empowered and confident in the things that they wear even if it’s a hat, a dress, whatever it may be, I want them to feel strong and beautiful because that’s what we should feel every day!

How do you reflect your own individuality (along with your clients‘) in the items that you create?

It’s all in how you cut [the fabric]. I always have my hand in the way something drapes or fits on an individual’s body. There’s always a sense of my passion for life and for femininity and for even a little bit of romance woven into my designs.

What are the biggest names you’ve designed for?

Erykah Badu, Wangechi Mutu, a famous artist whose pieces are in the MoMa, the Tate, and a lot of other art museums.

Some others are Common, Raphael Saadiq, and TLC. Working with people who are worldwide has been a huge honor. There’s so many, but thankfully they have all been incredible and I had an amazing time with all of them. I’ve never had any complaints working with any of them. It’s been a blessing!

How do you keep up with society while also maintaining your style?

Staying in touch with the youth. I ask questions such as “So who’s inspiring you now or who do I need to listen to now?”

What do you think sets you apart from other designers and boutique owners? What makes your designs or your ideas special?

That’s hard to say because it’s me. You know how people make a pot of soup with the same ingredients it turns out so different from each other, that’s essentially what I do. I take different colors, or textures, or fabrics and things that are in right now to make something that stands out from other pieces.

Have you ever had any doubts about becoming a designer or boutique owner?

No, I’ve always been confident. You know what you know. I love to teach from high school level to my oldest student being 60 yrs. old. I know how to design a dress and turn sketches into an actual piece so I was always confident in myself and my abilities.

Were there times of frustration? Yes, times of frustration when I had an idea, but it wasn’t working out, but in the end I always put something together. You have to remember that you’re always learning.

I noticed that in your bio, it talks about you studying abroad in England, so I wanted to know what that was like for you and how it has helped you develop your skills as a designer

Yeah, it was amazing! It was actually my first time on a plane leaving from Buffalo, NY to London. It was awesome, it was a bit of a culture shock. But it was good to live somewhere else where people don’t know you so you can develop a new sense of individuality. It’s like trying a new food, but it’s everything, different culture, new people, etc. Just immersing yourself into a different culture can be great for developing your individuality and exploring yourself.

If you weren’t a boutique owner, what would you be doing instead?

Probably cooking, either that or perfumery not with chemicals, but with essential oils. Maybe that or traveling, like if I had an infinite amount of money I would travel.

As a woman in your position, what advice can you give to young people who want to get where you are?

Never stop learning. Interns, speak up about your interests and be confident about it because that’s what attracts us.

Travel. It opens your whole mind to cultures and ways of doing things. Just emerge yourself in it. Just keep trying until something resonates and you’re like “this lights me up”

I am confident in myself and my abilities and everything that I’ve learned. – Ashaka Givens, an affirmation.

As summer break is in full swing so should your style! New York based designer + creative director T’masia Crowder makes sure your fashion taste hits every beach with her luxe swimwear brand T’masia Sade. This past spring our intern, Maria was able to touch base with the designer who founded her line in 2012. The brand radiates the modern femme with bold fabrics, variety of colors, accessories, edginess and playful shapes. The goal is to take risk and embody fierceness in young women swimwear beyond the norm.

Let’s get to know T’masia a little better…

What inspired you to make such bold designs?

I am inspired by all types of art and influences. Some of my designs are based on my eclectic/eccentric personality and style. Most of the time my designs are based on stepping out the box or bold colors.

Do you hope to someday expand your line to day and evening wear?

At the moment, no. I am looking to focus on expanding in my current market first.

What were some obstacles you have faced in the fashion industry?

One obstacle I would acknowledge is being discouraged, but don’t be. I typically do not get too caught up in the other obstacles in the fashion industry, I acknowledge them but I won’t allow them to deter me from my end goal. I aim to focus more on meeting my target market needs and adjusting with SOME trends.

What advice do you have for people interested in the fashion field?

The advice I would give to anyone interested in the fashion field would be to stick to your plan and to work hard/smart. Be passionate about what you are doing and don’t be scared to be an individual or an outcast. Most people/buyers relate more to designers who are true to themselves.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a fashion designer?

I was always artistic and my family kept me in different arts programs. However, I always knew I wanted to be a designer since early childhood. I would always work on alterations/bedazzling or vintage apparel with my grandmother, it was our thing!

What’s the best part, in your opinion, about the fashion world?

In my opinion, the best part of the fashion world is being free to create what ever you feel will impact someone’s appearance. The relationships you build with your clientele is also satisfying.

How did you first get your swimwear recognized?

I first got my swimwear recognized when I was selected to participate in the New York RAW Artist showcase. I remember being nervous because I just finished taking the leap of faith to start my brand at the time. However, by the end of that year I was so astonished that I was voted to participate in the RAW NY Fashion finale. That was my first debut to the world honestly and I was not even expecting it.

Would you have pursued a different careers if your designs weren’t recognized?

No. Being recognize does not determine my career, recognition will eventually come. However, during this time I had just graduated from undergrad so I started my career as an engineer in the construction industry during the day and I was pursuing my designs simultaneously.

How important is communication in the fashion field?

As for any industry or relationship, communication is key. The communication keeps everything flowing and on track, it impacts every aspect of your brand and it also can assist with mitigating any risk.
What have you learned so far about fashion? I’ve learned that fashion can change within a blink of an eye and most trends repeat themselves. But most importantly I’ve learned that fashion is what you make of it, it’s the best way to express yourself without speaking.

Has living in New York somewhat influenced your designs? If so, how?

Growing up in New York City I drew my inspiration from dope fashion in the streets. Most people in NYC are fearless with their fashion and sometimes out of the box. But that’s what makes it exciting and influential.

What do you hope to make people feel when they see and wear your designs?

I hope to make women feel confident, sexy, comfortable and edgy. I want them to say “I gotta have that” when they see my designs!

It’s that time a year where you can sprinkle your style all over the dance floor for PROM. Are you scratching your head trying to figure out the hot trends hitting your prom’s red carpet? Take a peek at 5 styles you’ll see and even might be wearing for your special night!

(Giphy.com)

All Glitter Everything! GLITTER over everything! You can never shine too bright as you’re moving + dancing with your date and your girls! From your dress to your beautiful skin, remember to shine bright like a diamond.

(Giphy.com)

Cute Cut outs!- Snip, snip! Show a little skin and still be elegant. Cut out dresses give off a flirty but glamourous vibe. Just make sure everything is secure so there is no peek-a-boo incidents.

(Giphy.com)

Time for the Two-Piece! Been working all winter for those killer abs?Well, prom may be a great way to premiere your fit + fab body!

(Giphy.com)

Beautiful +backless!- There’s nothing like turning around and having a ‘WOW’ factor! That’s exactly what a backless dress gives you. Be simple in the front and party in the back.

(Giphy.com)

Sign up for the Navy! Blues hues are making a stand this season! Navy blue is sleek, chic and will have your style be untouchable.

Giphy.com/ Vanity Fair

So there you have it! 5 trends to make you look selfie worthy this year. No matter what you decide to wear just make sure you’re true to you! So hair flip and rock it out!

You’re never too young to get swept up by the fresh spirit of entrepreneurship! Layla + Mya Parish are two sisters who run a sweet business called Suga Babes which consists of scrumptious sugar scrubs, lotions and great smelling soaps. Layla, 15, and Mya, 10, always had an urge to dig into their mother’s sweet bath gifts and was often told to stay out of her stuff. So they took their passion into their own hands and launched their beauty company!

Suga Babes is both all natural and gluten free. They use only premium ingredients in their sugar scrubs, body creams, soaps, and bath teas. Their scrubs and lotions aid in eczema as well. Not only do they create a fantastic product line but also offers mobile spa parties!

These amazing sisters have been fortunate to use their business as a platform to give back to the community and inspire other young girls to conquer their dreams.

Let’s get to know the Layla + Mya a little better…

Going into the beauty biz with your sister is awesome! What first motivated you to launch Suga Babes product line + mobile spa services?
We launched Suga Babes initially because we would use our mom’s bath and body products and she would always run us out. So we thought why not create our own product line of sugar scrubs, lotions, and soaps! We told our mom our idea and she helped us to make it a reality. We started our business April 2012. Shortly after getting our product line up and running we thought how cool would it be to include mobile spa parties. We launched our mobile spa service July 2012, and it was a hit! Moms love us! We offer mini services which would include mani’s, pedi’s and facials. And at the end of each party we give a inspirational message to our clients.

It’s beautiful that as you’re building your business as young, female entrepreneurs & giving back to the community! Why is that important to you both and what changes do you want to see in your generation?
Our mom has always taught us the importance of giving back and serving others. As we were putting the plan in place for our mobile spa parties we thought it would be awesome to use this service as a platform to motivate and inspire other young girls that there is no limit in what they can do in life when they put God first and believe. Then they take it a step further by putting their plans into action. That’s exactly what we did!

We would love to see our generation be more involved in their communities; and to remember those who came before us and what they had to endure for us to be able to enjoy the things we enjoy. We are our communities and we can make a difference. We all are a part of the puzzle and we fit perfectly.

Being young and having responsibilities can sometimes get to be a bit overwhelming, how do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?
We have balance. Our mom makes sure of that part. We have time where we work Suga Babes and a time where we let our hair down from being young entrepreneurs to young girls. Our mom is our motivator. She constantly tells us we can do this! She does a lot and supports us 100%. She makes sure we are not burned out or overwhelmed by having checks and balances in place. We also watch our peers who are entrepreneurs and that motivates us to keep going because if they can do it we can too.

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and why?
Our mother. She is our inspiration and biggest cheerleader! Our mom is a strong woman who has experienced a lot. She is organized, smart and very pretty. She is full of wisdom and strength. When we came to her with our idea she didn’t hesitate to help us. She was a single mom at the time with one income. Every extra cent she had went into our business. We are so grateful for her and all of her sacrifices that she has made just for us! She is our “first lady”, “celebrity” and “rock star!” Our mom totally ROCKS!

What are 3 pieces of advice you would give girls to be confident in themselves?
To believe in yourself and your abilities. To step out of your comfort zone. Take risks and never give up.

We are all about empowerment, What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?
Empowerment means to have the power and will to achieve your goals. To never stop. To never quit. To make it happen.

Break a sweat + dance! On July 15thSTEM From Dance celebrated their Summer Showcase 2016 at Achievement First Brooklyn High School!

The beautiful and talented girls participating in STEM from Dance performed an original choreography to music that they’ve created and costumes they have designed – all through coding and wearable electronics.

Summer is officially here which means more time in the sun. Here are some facts and tips to help you stay safe not only all summer, but all year around.

THE FACTS

Sunlight is made up of UV rays, waves of light that comes from the sun and is invisible to the naked eye. There are three types that can be easily broken down like such:

UVA = causes the breakdown of elastin and collagen, which causes the skin to sag aiding in the aging of skin

UVB = causes the skin to burn

UVC = only reaches the earth’s surface through holes in the ozone layer

UVA rays (long waves) are powerful enough to penetrate both clouds and glass

They are present during all daylight hours throughout the year. For UVB rays (short waves), they do not significantly penetrate glass, but they do reflect off both snow and ice double exposing you to their harm. UVB rays are most prevalent during the months of April and October between the hours of 10a.m. and 4p.m.

Excessive exposure to UV radiation can cause genetic mutations in the body causing skin cancer. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer once in their lifetime, and despite your skin tone or ethnicity, everyone… everyone is at risk of developing skin cancer.

We know, it’s a lot of information but we need you beauties to be informed! Skin cancer is a very serious issue, but with these tips and some of our favorite sunscreen products, we will help you get all the protection you need!

THE TIPS

There are two types of sunscreens on the market right now. Physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens work by reflecting UV rays off top of the skin and because they filter UVA and UVB rays they’re considered broad spectrum. Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and can take up to 30 minutes to take effect. Those with sensitive skin tend to like a physical sunscreen being that it doesn’t penetrate the skin. While those with deeper skin tones might prefer a chemical sunscreen due to the fact physical sunscreens tend to leave a gray cast.

To keep it simple, just remember the number 2! Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, use up to two ounces on the body (one shot glass full) and replace your sunscreen every 2 years!

Simple enough, right? Right! Here are so of our best sunscreen for all your sun care needs!

Both sunscreens can be used on all skin tones without the fear of making face complexions appear ashy. Also, if you use a face treatment serum that allows your dark spots and age marks to diminish, using a sunscreen is vital. Using a product like Clinique’s Even Better Serum, and not using a sunscreen will reverse the treatment making dark marks appear darker.

March is International Women’s Month! In honor of this month we decided to shine light on one of the leading ladies in the beauty industry today! We sat down with Amanda Gardner, the owner, lead esthetician and skin therapist of DreamDolls Wax & Glow Bar. DreamDolls Wax&Glow Bar is a New York based beauty bar for women.

Amanda Gardner developed DreamDolls in 2015. Growing up as a teenager Amanda loved all things beauty and all things that glittered. She was known for making skincare concoctions, overusing perfume, and spending her allowance in the Rite Aid cosmetics and skincare aisles. After learning less is more and after years of perfecting her hobbies, she realized she could turn it into an actual career. In 2011 Amanda enrolled in Atelier Esthetique Institute of Esthetics, a renowned and highly rated school for aspiring estheticians.

Amanda excelled in her classes and made it her business to soak up any knowledge obtainable to her. Her classes consisted of Anatomy of the Skin, Physiology of Hair Growth, and Advanced Skincare treatments. Shortly after graduating Amanda acquired an Esthetics position at Aveda Spa Lounge. A few months after hire, Amanda was promoted to Lead Esthetician. After a year of managing spa staff and solely performing facials, Amanda realized she wanted to expand her experience and resigned from Aveda. In early 2013 she began solely concentrating in hair removal. During this time she perfected her craft in waxing.

In 2015 she created and developed DreamDolls Wax&GlowBar LLC. DreamDolls began as a private practice specializing in facials, and waxing. It will evolve into a beauty bar that provides also nails, makeup, eyelash/eyebrow extensions, body contouring, and even laser treatments. The best is yet to come!

Tell us a little about DreamDolls Wax&Glow Bar.

DreamDolls Wax&Glow Bar, LLC is where a doll gets dolled! DreamDolls is currently a private office practice where we specialize in waxing, skincare, and facials. I do not look at DreamDolls, as just a business .It is a movement, a movement for all women. A place for you to come, receive exceptional service, get dolled, but above all be yourself and feel comfortable. This is only the beginning. Our services continue to expand and our brand continues to bloom. I named DreamDolls with a strong name because I envision it to be a chained household name.

What sparked the idea to start this type of business?

I have always been a lover of the beauty industry. It all began as a young teenager. I first fell in love around 12. Now that I think about it I would have to thank my older cousin Shantell Gardner. She is a beauty industry GODDESS! She worked for many high-end skin care lines and would give me things to try and sample. At the age of 13 I would have Clinique, Este Lauder, Dior and Mac products on my dresser as if I was a young woman already. I am grateful for that because before that I would buy Noxzema and all different kinds of junk from the drugstores and make horrible skincare concoctions. I laugh about

those times when I think back on it. But, I would love to watch her clean out her perfume collections and endless makeup bags. Her perfume collection is really just out of this world! She would give me whatever she didn’t want and I was really just in love since then!

Years later after graduating from Atelier Esthetique Institute of Esthetics, I just knew I would be a business owner. I never believed that I would be working for others for very long. I always felt that no employer had my same passion. However, there were quite a few times when I would enroll back in college and then realize that my passion was still calling my name. In 2015 I was ready to begin my journey as a business owner. So, I took the plunge and did it!

What was the journey like?

My journey was actually pretty fast and intense. It was like a light bulb went off one morning. I was feeling tension where I was working at the time. The energy was feeling heavy and I just felt that it was a sign that it was time. So I resigned and began working diligently to begin DreamDolls. I would not sleep! I worked so hard! I developed every creative aspect of my business in solitude. I worked hard on getting the website and the booking site together. I just engulfed myself into my baby. DreamDolls failing was just not an option.

What is it like to be a black woman business owner in the beauty industry?

I will say that we all have the same 24 hours and 7 days in the week. Being a business owner in general is stressful and a continuous fight. As an entrepreneur every day is full of ups and downs. The color my skin does not make my business. It is all about your work ethic. “No” is not an option. “I can’t” should not be in your vocabulary. With anything you do in life you have to work hard! My company has over 100 clients. I have women from so many different backgrounds, race, and ethnicities. DreamDolls is a movement for all women to come and get dolled up 🙂

What sets DreamDolls Wax&Glow Bar a part from other Beauty Bar’s?

What I love about DreamDolls is that all my clients are wowed as soon as they walk into the treatment room. It is clean, comfortable, and is warm and welcoming. It is private so many client say that they feel like a celebrity with their own private esthetician. Someone once said she felt like she gets the same treatment as the Beyoncé. That made me smile. I love that my clients are so comfortable and at home.

We speak things into existence here at Core Reader Mag; tell us something you want tohappen for yourself and your business?

I envision DreamDolls Wax&Glow Bar, LLC to be a chained household name. DreamDolls will have locations in a few major cities with in some years. We will begin offering laser treatments, eyelash & brow extensions, body contouring, etc. DreamDolls Wax&Glow Bar will be the hottest and fastest growing beauty bar known. This is only the beginning!

Advice to the young ladies looking to start their own business.

 Keep positive and well wishing friends and family around you.

 Always keep in mind that this journey is not meant to be shared with everyone.

 Change your vocabulary. Delete the “cant’s” “its too hard”

 Charge what you are worth (I am still taking this advice for myself )

 Keep your vision clear. WRITE EVERYTHING DOWN!

 Don’t allow people with heavy, and not so happy for you energies to get in the way.

 YOU Are A BOSS!

During the interview, we also had a chance to watch Amanda demonstrate a facial and underarm waxing. Here’s what she had to say to the questions we’ve been dying to when it comes to caring for our skin.

Tell us why is it so important to have a proper skincare routine.

Our skin is the largest organ of the human body. We have to live with it everyday. We make sure we do our nails, hair, buy clothes, and try our best to look good. However, when someone meets you the first thing they do is look at your face. I make skin contact before eye contact.

What you put on your skin is extremely important. You have to think of your body as one big pore. Your skin absorbs EVERYTHING you put on it. You want make sure you only use the highest quality of products. I am not a huge fan of OTC products (Over The Counter). They are usually full of junk, contain fillers, made of large molecules that sit on top of the skin but do not penetrate the skin. You want to invest in a professional skincare line that has high levels of active ingredients that actually treat the skin.

At DreamDolls we provide our guest with the most luxurious and effective skin care products. We achieve advanced results and target concerns of aging, acne, clogging of pores, fines line, age spots, melasma, hyperpigmentation and rosacea. Our SkinscriptRx line specializes in corrective skin care for all skin types and ethnicities. A DreamDolls facial not only softens, but also polishes the skin, making it glow! Clinical results are to be expected!

What are your top products one must have to have a complete skincare routine?

These are the absolute must haves that you NEED in your skincare.

1. CLEANSER: A Cleanser based on your skin type.

2. EXFOLIATOR: A gentle exfoliator is a must have in your skincare. Your skin cells are constantly regenerating. So 2-3 times a week you want to sloth of the dead skin cells.

3. MOISTURIZER: Even if you are oily you need to moisturize to keep the skin soft and supple.

4. SUNSCREEN: Sunscreen in general is a must have for health reasons and protection from the sun.

However, you want to also keep in mind if you are trying to combat hyperpigmentation you will need sunscreen to seize further darkening.

My motto is the simpler the better. Once you have these essentials you can then begin adding serums to treat and a toner. If you aren’t great with routine, STAY SIMPLE!

How often should one come to get a facial?

For someone who is looking to treat problematic skin and/or looking to work toward smooth, even, and radiant skin a facial should be scheduled once a month.

If you are receiving facials for maintenance you want to schedule your appointment every time the season changes. This helps you start off each weather change with healthy and clean skin.

Bust a beauty myth!

So many people believe that the “squeaky-clean” feel is a sign that your cleanser is working. However, it is a sure tell sign that you destroyed your acid mantle. Your acid mantle is your skins protective barrier. It is a very fine, slightly acidic film on the surface of the skin that acts as a barrier to bacteria, viruses and other potential contaminants that might penetrate the skin. Think about that…..

Oh and let go of the St.Ives scrub!!!! It is like glass to the face. This abrasive scrub causes micro tears on the skin, which results in premature wrinkling.

What’s a common misconception women and men of color make about their skin?

There is something called a Fitzpatrick scale which is used by estheticians and dermatologist to classify a persons skin type. The scale goes from the fairest to the darkest skin. Many people assume that darker is stronger and more tolerable. However, the higher you go on the Fitzpatrick scale the more careful you have to be with that person’s skin. Women and men of color actually have extremely sensitive skin. The more dark a person’s skin is, actually means the more tactful and cautious a skin care professional has

Walking through the beauty aisle in the drug store, restocking on some needed essentials I’m immediately met with this overwhelming spectacle of red and pink teddy bears. Turn the corner, chocolates in big red boxes and on the opposite side a massive wall of red theme colored cards. I started to think “tis another holiday for red lipstick” and rolled my eyes just a little.

Now let me make two things very clear, I enjoy everything about Valentine’s Day and I love a classic red lip, anytime any day. However (insert long dramatic pause), how often do we go to that particular scarlet shade for date night, during the holiday season, to do laundry, go to the grocery store or during sessions at the gym? (Or is this just me?) Let’s ditch the red lip this Valentine’s Day.

One lip shade that has made a statement over the last two years or so has come in hues of purple. The night this majestic color captivated the world was the night of the 2014 Met Gala, where Joan Smalls graced the red carpet wearing a stunning Vera Wang gown (she was the designers date that night), bronze skin and this enticing purple shade of lipstick. Joan reminded me of a modern day Aphrodite that night. The purple lip shade, crafted by professional makeup artist Sir John B and Joan herself, a statement on it’s own, compliments Smalls glowing skin tone effortlessly. Joan’s flowing gown and fishtail braid completes this modern goddesses look.

Photo Credit: The Coveteur

Since, we have seen tons of celebrities hit the red carpet, give interviews and even host events in royal hues of purple. Urban Decay makeup artist Shani Rich and Sephora Senior Artist Johan Castro weigh in on their favorite purple lip shades for all skin tones and ages, and how to wear them so you to can have your goddess moment.

What is your go-to purple lipstick?

“My go to purple lip color for all skin tones would have to be “ Matte After Dark” by Urban Decay” exclaims Shani Rich. “It looks great on everyone and is good to wear all year round”. “Try L.U.V by Kat Von D (one of my personal favorites) it is long lasting and looks great on every skin tone, especially if you’re hesitant on trying a full on purple lipstick. This shade has a little fuchsia balancing it out perfectly.” suggest Johan.

On women of brown and deeper skin tones …

“A great shade for women of deeper skin tones would be “ZIPPER” liquid matte by Colourpop Cosmetics. With this lip color I have to say less makeup is more. The complexion should be clean with seamless foundation and contour application, and subtle highlight. You don’t want to do to much as this lip color is bold and will stand out on it’s on. Also, I would avoid matching the eye shadow with the lip. That is a no-go and looks like way too much makeup. Simplicity is key, especially when trying to achieve a flawless makeup application with deeper skin tones.” – Shani Rich

On women of light to medium skin tones …

“A great shade from women of light to medium skin tones is Makeup Forever Rouge Artist Intense 15. This bold color is the perfect shade of purple. It won’t make your complexion appear washed out or as if you were about to relive your gothic teenage years. The iridescence finish gives your entire complexion this subtle glow to it. When wearing this shade make sure to apply tinted moisturizer or a sheer foundation to even out any redness in the skin, and play off that subtle glow from the lip color. Avoid wearing heavy blush and opt for a bronzer or subtle highlight”. –Johan Castro

For our tweens …

I believe teenagers should wear lipgloss or very sheer lipsticks nothing too bold. Lipgloss is very age appropriate and still FUN! Like Sephora’s “ Sweet Mauve Sparkling” Ultra Shine Lipgloss “ says Shani. As for Johan “For the younger readers tinted lip balms are great. Gives you a hint on color and conditions the lips”. “Try Clinique’s Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balms in “Voluptuous Violet”.

Before you reach for your favorite red lip this Valentine’s Day season, ask yourself, how many times will I wear this again, this month alone? Try these recommendations from the pros, make a statement like Joan and feel like a goddess during these days of love. Seriously who doesn’t want to feel like and exude the aura of a goddess?

How crazy is the world in which we live? Every time you log onto Facebook or check your news outlets, something in this dynamic world is changing. As you begin to mature and identify with who you truly are, it is important you don’t allow irrelevance to deter you and create imbalance in your life. The things we see and hear on television or the radio or at the mall can become a part of us—even when we are not trying to absorb the energy. Think about it. Have you ever been in a great mood and then get around your girlfriend, who is having boyfriend issues, and instantly feel the negative energy she’s emitting? Before you know it, your day has taken a turn for the worst and you just broke up with your boyfriend who doesn’t even exist. This is a prime example of unsolicited, negative energy being transferred from one party to another. I never knew the importance of maintaining a healthy energy and a life balance until I experienced some of life’s hardships. It’s unfortunate that I had to deal with negative energy in order to acknowledge the importance of good energy; but I am thankful that once I started to evolve into my purpose I realized that in order for my purpose to be fulfilled, I have to have a healthy spirit and maintain a life balance.

What can you accomplish in a room full of clutter, horrible smells, and loud noise—absolutely nothing. There are too many distractions for you to seriously concentrate. This is exactly how your spirit and life work. When you fill your life with junk like (NOT) reality TV shows and Kim Kardashian’s Instagram page, you begin to distract yourself from things that are actually here to help you to become a better person and redeem increases in your life. Yes, it is fun to check in on Hollywood and get the latest fashion or gossip feed, but these things are not your life. If you allow gossip blogs to have control over you, and you find yourself caring more about people you don’t know than what is going on in your community, it is time for you to open yourself to the endless possibilities of being conscious. It is time for you to gain balance and control of your life.

When I am looking for a sense of calm and direction: I meditate, I pray, and I recently started to engage in yoga. When people try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, they typically forget the spirit is a muscle that must be conditioned as well. When your spirit or inner being is strong and resilient, nonsense will grow irrelevant. It is easier for you to decipher what is important (to you) and what has been placed in your life as a distraction. Engage daily with your inner being through meditation, journaling, yoga, running—any activity that allows you to be alone with yourself and escape your daily routine. Find what works best for you and stick to it.

Sometimes the world is so extremely loud and obnoxious, we couldn’t hear our inner-selves if we wanted to. But being able to mute the intolerable and listen to your inner-self will provide you with the calm and balance your life needs. So find the time to condition your spirit and give yourself a sense of peace nothing else can provide. It will be the beginning to a well balanced, healthy life.

Here’s to health and beauty and everything inside of you. It is the inside that counts!